The lives of a five-year-old 'champ' and his great-grandparents who were killed by carbon monoxide poisoning have been remembered in a moving funeral service.

Yesterday little McCauley Thomas, who shared his great-grandfather's love of boxing, was buried with Pat and Gloria Chidgey at Bedwellty Cemetery.

Many mourners stood outside the packed St Augustine's Church in Pontllanfraith for the emotionally charged funeral, which was conducted by Reverend Canon Raymond John Summers.

World champion boxer and relative Robbie Regan was among the congregation, as was boxing trainer Dai Gardiner.

Rev Summers said afterwards: 'The immediate family and those around them were very emotionally charged.

'McCauley's parents were distraught. But I was pleased for the support they had, the community turned out for them and showed they cared.'

During the 35-minute service, the congregation sang Amazing Grace in memory of Pat, 71, and Gloria, 68, who married at the church 50 years ago next month. The mourners then sang Shine, Jesus Shine in memory of little McCauley.

Rev Summers said: 'It was a nice bouncy hymn because he was a nice bouncing little boy. I think both the hymns were very apt. I read Matthew 12, which says 'children have their guardian angels in heaven' - I wanted to use this for the family.'

At 12.10pm the church bells tolled and traffic was halted as three hearses carried the family's coffins to Bedwellty Cemetery.

The first bore the name 'Pat' in white and peach flowers, and was followed by a hearse carrying the words 'Mam' for Gloria.

The third and final hearse carried the small white coffin of McCauley, with his nickname 'Champ' in yellow flowers.

'They were buried in the same grave which is something we have never done before,' said Rev Summers.

McCauley and Mr and Mrs Chidgey were found dead last month in the couple's home in Pontllanfraith. McCauley had been staying there over the half-term holiday.